The Oak, Chatham

Pub for the 1970s Walderslade 'village' housing estates, but apart from the single-storey front extension (in the usual style for that period) may be older than it first appears. Unremarkable semi-modern furniture and decor in both the bar and side dining area. Food served from standard menu. Beer garden with a children's play area to the rear. Now a Greene King house, I found IPA (£3.65), Old Speckled Hen and the seasonal Rocking Rudolph available from the three handpumps. So far, so so, but I was not only offered a 10% Camra discount (without asking) but also a taster of the other two real ales in case I wanted to try something else on my next visit. The friendly and helpful staff really help this place, so an unexpected pleasure to visit.

A John Barras 1970s estate pub, brick built, very much the heart of a modern 'village' community. A single large L-shaped bar is mostly laid out for consumers of the cheap, formulaic food on offer. Carpeted throughout, there are large picture windows giving a panoramic view of the car park and the garage opposite. There is a feature fake fireplace, gaming machines and a tv screen used to show Sky sports events. Most of the custom is local, but that ranges from families to fully grown single drinkers. Two ales on, Doombar and Young's Bitter, both in reasonable condition, plus the usual array of megakeg for the unimaginative. It's family-friendly - there is a rusty slide enabling the younger generation to descend with glee into the fag-ends in the garden - but that isn't always a good thing. A bit off the beaten track, but ok to drop in for a reasonable pint and cheap snack if passing.